Solomons search for new coach

Solomon Islands Football Federation President William Lai said the federation respects Toata’s decision to stand-down from the role which saw him guide the side to the semi-finals of the 2016 OFC Nations Cup.
“Moses Toata has decided not to continue as coach for the next stage of the Oceania World Cup Qualifiers,” Lai said.
“SIFF respects his decision and will engage a new coach, most probably an international coach from overseas, as the next qualifying stage is very important.
“SIFF will do everything possible to prepare a good team for the next stage as demand for success from the nation is very high now that Solomon Islands has reached another level in the World Cup Qualifiers.”
Despite stepping down as head coach, Toata is expected to remain part of the wider coaching team, helping his replacement prepare the squad for the first round of Stage 3 matches in November.
Lai said talks for Toata’s replacement are already underway and with training set to resume in the next few weeks, that appointment won’t be far off being announced.
Solomon Islands have been drawn alongside Papua New Guinea and Tahiti for Stage 3 and Lai said guidelines around preparations will be heavily enforced.
“There will be no unnecessary absenteeism during training sessions; any player who is marked absent three times without any good explanation will be removed from the squad,” he said.
“It has come to a time that we must be strict in our preparations.
“Gone are the days we take things lightly, we must try and do things professionally.”
Several friendly matches are scheduled for next month with a proposed tour to Asia also being discussed for October.
Solomon Islands kick-off Stage 3 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Qualifiers against Tahiti in November.
For more on Solomon Islands football visit www.siff.com.sb.